ResearchAbility – November 2025

Posted on by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP
dark purple background image with a photo of a red clipboard sitting on a wooden surface holding white paper with text "Least Restrictive Environment," on the right of the image. The first letter of each word is capitalized and red. Wire-rimmed glasses are set on the left of the clipboard in the photo. Below the photo is a yellow ribbon shape that flows from left to right of the image. On the top right side of the image is a white semi-circluar shape that has Pathfinder's branded graphic on it. On the left of the image is text, "RESEARCH ABILITY," with a graphic of the disability symbol of a person in a wheelchair on its right. Below is a list in yellow and white check bullets that say, "Observation Surveys Interviews Focus Groups Experiments Analysis Mixed Methods."

Research is a key component for making new discoveries and improving the lives of people with disabilities. It can also provide participants with insight and support regarding their conditions, especially when there is a gap in services. Here are a few studies that may be of interest

Drumming Lessons for Children with Down Syndrome Study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University are exploring whether drumming lessons can help children with Down syndrome improve self-control, beat-tracking, and social behaviors. This study focuses on children ages 7–12 and uses EEG technology to measure brain activity during drumming sessions.

What’s Involved?

  • Two lab visits at the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
  • Drumming activities while connected to the EEG
  • Parent surveys on social behavior
  • One group receives drumming lessons between visits; the other starts after the second visit

Why This Matters:
Children with Down syndrome often face challenges with self-regulation. If drumming proves effective, it could become a fun, accessible therapy option.

Interested in Participating?
Email vuhandsonplaylab@gmail.com or call (615) 343-1079.

Read more about the study